The Rio Olympics in pictures

“The GB medallists' reception at Buckingham Palace was a crowded and happy event”

The Queen

The head of state, who recorded her annual message at Buckingham Palace earlier this month, added: “From giving friendship and support to our veterans, the elderly or the bereaved; to championing music and dance; providing animal welfare; or protecting our fields and forests, their selfless devotion and generosity of spirit is an example to us all."

And the Christmas address ended on a religious note, as the Queen said: "The message of Christmas reminds us that inspiration is a gift to be given as well as received, and that love begins small but always grows."